Jon Jones formally introduced his retirement from UFC on Saturday evening.
“This determination comes after numerous reflection, and I need to take a second to specific my deepest gratitude for the journey I’ve skilled over time,” Jones wrote on social media.
“From the primary time I stepped into the Octagon, my purpose was to push the boundaries of what was attainable on this sport. Turning into the youngest UFC champion in historical past, defending my title in opposition to among the greatest fighters on this planet, and sharing unforgettable moments with followers throughout the globe—these are reminiscences I’ll cherish endlessly. I’ve confronted unimaginable highs and a few robust lows, however each problem has taught me one thing worthwhile and made me stronger, each as a fighter and as an individual.
I need to thank the UFC, Dana, Hunter, Lorenzo, God, my household, coaches, teammates, and all of the followers who’ve stood by me via each chapter. Your unwavering assist and perception in me have been my basis. To my fellow fighters, thanks for bringing out the perfect in me and for the respect we’ve shared inside and outdoors the cage.
As I shut this chapter of my life, I look ahead to new alternatives and challenges forward. MMA will all the time be part of who I’m, and I’m excited to see how I can proceed to contribute to the game and encourage others in new methods. Thanks all for being a part of this unimaginable journey with me. The most effective is but to come back.”
Jones was beforehand the UFC heavyweight champion, whereas Tom Aspinall was the interim heavyweight champion.
Jones, 37, leaves the game with a near-perfect 28-1 file. His sole loss got here in July 2022 when he injured his knee in opposition to Curtis Blaydes. Jones grew to become the youngest champion in UFC historical past when he took the sunshine heavyweight title in 2011 at 23 years previous, finally transitioning to the heavyweight division in 2023.
Previous to his retirement, Jones had been going through stress to vacate his title due to his extended inactivity and delays in defending in opposition to Aspinall.
In 2023, following a three-year hiatus, Jones made his return to the UFC for his first heavyweight combat, happening to defeat Ciryl Gane within the first spherical and declare the belt that had been vacated by Francis Ngannou simply earlier than, per Sportsnet. Jones defended his belt in opposition to former long-time champion Stipe Miocic in Nov. 2024. He revealed earlier this month that he hadn’t “actually labored out” since that victory at UFC 309, per Bleacher Report.
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